Candied Kabocha

candied kabocha and crème fraîche

I've been in love with kabocha squash for a few years now specially as a dessert or simply steamed and sprinkled with sea salt. And because it has a flavor that's similar to chestnuts, I thought, why not candy them. Oh yeah, the candied squash pieces are simply delightful!

Candied Kabocha

half of a kabocha
1 cup sugar
¼ cup water
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
crème fraîche or unsweetened Greek yogurt

• Peel kabocha, or leave unpeeled. Cut into 1-inch cubes or 2 inch slices.
• In a medium saucepan, bring sugar and water to a boil and stir until sugar has dissolved. Boil rapidly for 3 minutes. Add vanilla extract and kabocha and let simmer for 10 minutes.
• Transfer the squash into a container and set aside. Continue boiling the syrup on low heat until slightly thick. Pour the syrup on top of the cooked squash. Let cool; cover with plastic wrap and leave overnight on kitchen counter.
• Drain the syrup into a saucepan and let boil until thick and syrupy.
• Serving suggestion: Place a few pieces of candied squash on a dessert cup or plate. Top with yogurt or crème fraîche. Drizzle all over with syrup.

I cooked the other half in sautéed garlic, onion, and vegetable bouillon, then added a cup of thick coconut milk and simmered until tender but not mushy. It's a delicious vegan side or main dish.

ginataang kabocha